Life Lab photography

What Sets Me Apart as Your Photographer Personal, Professional, and Purpose-Driven Photography in Te Awamutu There are plenty of photographers out there, but what makes working with me different is the experience I offer from the moment you reach out. Based in Te Awamutu, I’ve built a business that’s deeply personal, shaped by years of raising a family, being part of a rural community, and pursuing a creative life with intention. I’m not just a photographer—I’m a mum to four adult children and a nana to three beautiful grandkids. My husband and I have lived on our Pirongia Road property for decades, and it’s here that we built my studio—a peaceful, light-filled space just steps from our home. That alone sets the tone. When you come for a session, you’re stepping into a space that’s warm, familiar, and designed to make families feel at ease. Over the past seven years, I’ve worked with hundreds of families across Waikato. I’ve captured tiny newborn toes, first smiles, milestone birthdays, and family moments that now hang on walls across the region. Many of my clients come back year after year, which means I get to watch your babies grow, your family expand, and your story unfold through photographs. It’s never just a one-off shoot for me—it’s about building trust and creating something meaningful, together. A Calm Space with a Natural Style My studio is purpose-built for newborn photography, with everything we need close at hand. I provide gentle wraps, cozy textures, delicate props, and even the white noise that helps lull your baby to sleep. You don’t need to bring a thing—except your baby. And maybe a snack for yourself. Stylistically, I’m drawn to earthy tones, soft pastels, and rich, layered textures that feel timeless rather than trendy. My images are carefully composed but never stiff. I aim to create mood and emotion, focusing on honest connection rather than perfection. I love working with natural light, shadows, and the kind of details that tell a deeper story—like a baby’s wrinkled hands or the quiet moment a mum takes a breath between feeds. I Embrace the Chaos If you’ve got toddlers, bring them. If your baby hasn’t napped, that’s okay too. One of the things I’ve learned over the years is that real family life is often a bit messy—and I embrace it. I let little ones be little. We take breaks when needed, and I follow the rhythm of your family, not the other way around. Some of my favourite photographs have come from those in-between, unplanned moments. That’s the magic of it. Behind the Lens: A Bit About Me Before photography became my career, it was my creative outlet. I started by photographing my grandchildren, discovering how profoundly a single image could stir emotion and memory. That feeling—of holding a photograph and being transported back to a time you can’t quite remember but never want to forget—is what led me to train professionally. I’m now a fully accredited photographer and a certified newborn safety expert, which means your baby’s comfort and well-being are always my first priority. I’m constantly learning. Whether it’s attending workshops, exploring new editing techniques, or updating studio props with new textures and colours, I believe in evolving while still staying true to the style that resonates with my clients. What I Offer My services are designed for families at every stage of life: Styled Newborn Sessions: Held in my Te Awamutu studio, these sessions are ideal for babies under two weeks. They focus on soft, sleepy, curled-up poses using natural, organic styling. Family Lifestyle Sessions: Shot outdoors or in your own home, these sessions are relaxed and connection-driven. We focus on capturing your family as you are—snuggles, silliness, and all. Maternity Sessions: A gentle, soulful celebration of this season of waiting, often featuring soft lighting and simple styling. Milestone Sessions: Designed for babies who are sitting or celebrating a first birthday—these are short, sweet, and full of personality. Seasonal & Christmas Sessions: Every year, I offer beautifully styled themed sessions with thoughtful sets and unique touches (and a little lucky dip gift for the kids, too). Why Clients Keep Coming Back Because it’s not just about photos—it’s about the experience. It’s about how you feel during the session and how those feelings are reflected in your final gallery. My clients come back because they know I care about getting it right. I don’t overbook. I don’t rush. I treat each session with the care and attention it deserves. Families tell me they feel seen and supported when they work with me. They appreciate my calm presence, my gentle guidance, and the way I can get real smiles even from the most camera-shy kids. And above all, they love the way the final images make them feel. A Few Fun Facts My studio is in the heart of the Waikato countryside, surrounded by trees, paddocks, and a whole lot of fresh air. I’ve won multiple awards for my newborn photography, including a Silver Distinction at the recent Newborn Print Awards in Christchurch. I’m also known for my Christmas sessions, which book out fast each year—there’s even a sleigh involved! I have a knack for turning ordinary locations (like a foggy paddock or a small patch of forest) into magical backdrops for timeless family portraits. More Than a Job This work is deeply personal for me. It’s about preserving the moments you’ll look back on when the baby is suddenly in school, or when your teens are taller than you. Photographs are more than images—they’re your family’s visual legacy. When you work with me, you’re getting someone who understands that deeply. Someone who’s walked the parenting path, who knows how fast it goes, and who wants to help you hold onto it just a little longer. Let’s Create Something Beautiful If you’re after heartfelt photography with a personal touch—photos that feel like your family, not someone else’s idea of perfect—I’d love to work with you. Let’s chat, plan a session that feels right, and create images you’ll love for a lifetime. Reach out today to book your session or explore my recent work on the gallery page.